2-Descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-11-desoxy-15-substituted-.omega.-pentanorprostaglandins

ABSTRACT

The 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-11-desoxy-15-substituted- omega -pentanorprostaglandins and various intermediates employed in their preparation. The novel prostaglandins of this invention have been found to have activity profiles comparable to the parent prostaglandins, but exhibit a greater tissue specificity of action.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to certain novel analogs of the naturally occurring prostaglandins. In particular, it relates to novel 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-15-substituted-ω-pentanorprostaglandins and various novel intermediates useful in their preparation.

The prostaglandins are C-20 unsaturated fatty acids which exhibit diverse physiological effects. For instance, the prostaglandins of the E and A series are potent vasodilators (Bergstrom, et al., Acta Physiol. Scand. 64:332-33, 1965 and Bergstrom, et al., Life Sci. 6:449-455, 1967) and lower systemic arterial blood pressure (vasodepression) on intravenous administration (Weeks and King, Federation Proc. 23:327, 1965; Bergstrom, et al., 1965, op. cit.; Carlson, et al., Acta Med. Scand. 183:423-430, 1968; and Carlson et al., Acta Physiol. Scand. 75:161-169, 1969). Another well known physiological action for PGE₁ and PGE₂ is as a bronchodilator (Cuthbert, Brit. Med. J. 4:723-726, 1969).

Still another important physiological role for the natural prostaglandins is in connection with the reproductive cycle. PGE₂ is known to possess the ability to induce labor (Karim, et al., J. Obstet. Gynaec. Brit. Cwlth. 77:200-210, 1970), to induce therapeutic abortion (Bygdeman, et al., Contraception, 4, 293 (1971) and to be useful for control of fertility (Karim, Contraception, 3, 173 (1971)). Patents have been obtained for several prostaglandins of the E and F series as inducers of labor in mammals (Belgian Pat. No. 754,158 and West German Pat. No. 2,034,641), and on PGE₁, F₂ and F₃ for control of the reproductive cycle (South African Pat. No. 69/6089). It has been shown that luteolysis can take place as a result of administration of PGF₂.sub.α [Labhsetwar, Nature, 230, 528 (1971)] and hence prostaglandins have utility for fertility control by a process in which smooth muscle stimulation is not necessary.

Still other known physiological activities for PGE₁ are in the inhibition of gastric acid secretion (Shaw and Ramwell, In: Worchester Symp. on Prostaglandins, New York, Wiley, 1968, p. 55-64) and also of platelet aggregation (Emmons, et al., Brit. Med. J. 2:468-472, 1967).

It is now known that such physiological effects will be produced in vivo for only a short period, following the administration of a prostaglandin. Evidence indicates that the reason for this rapid cessation of activity is that the natural prostaglandins are quickly and efficiently metabolically deactivated by β-oxidation of the carboxylic acid side-chain and by oxidation of the 15α-hydroxy group (Anggard, et al., Acta. Physiol. Scand. 81, 396 (1971) and references cited therein). It has been shown that placing a 15-alkyl group in the prostaglandins has the effect of increasing the duration of action possibly by preventing the oxidation of the C15-hydroxyl [Yankee and Bundy, JACS 94, 3651 (1972)], Kirton and Forbes, Prostaglandins, 1, 319 (1972).

It was, of course, considered desirable to create analogs of the prostaglandins which would have physiological activities equivalent to the natural compounds, but in which the selectivity of action and the duration of the activity would be increased. Increased selectivity of action would be expected to alleviate the severe side effects, particularly gastrointestinal side effects frequently observed following systemic administration of the natural prostaglandins (Lancet, 536, 1971).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

These needs are met by the 2-descarboxy-2-[tetrazol-5-yl]11 -desoxy-ω-pentanorprostaglandins and their C₁₅ epimers having at the 15-position a hydroxyl or keto group and one substituent of the formula: ##EQU1## wherein Ar is α- or β-thienyl; 5-phenyl-α- or β-thienyl; 5-lower alkyl-α- or β-thienyl; α- or β-naphthyl; tropyl, phenyl; 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl; 3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl; 3,4-dichlorophenyl; 3,5-dimethylphenyl; and monosubstituted phenyl wherein said substituent is bromo, chloro, fluoro, trifluoromethyl, phenyl, lower alkyl, or lower alkoxy; and R is hydrogen or methyl and the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. Preferred compounds of this invention are the 15-substituted-2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-11-desoxy-ω-pentanorprostaglandins of the E and F series, their C₁₅ epimers, and 15 keto derivatives.

Such preferred compounds are represented by the formula: ##SPC1##

wherein

Ar is α- or β-thienyl; 5-phenyl-α- or β-thienyl; 5-lower alkyl α- or β-thienyl; α- or β-naphthyl; tropyl; phenyl; 3,5-dimethylphenyl; 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl 3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl; 3,4-dichlorophenyl; and monosubstituted phenyl wherein said substituent is bromo, chloro, fluoro, trifluoromethyl, phenyl, lower alkyl, or lower alkoxy; R is hydrogen or methyl;

and wherein

M and N aree each ##SPC2##

W is a single bond or cis double bond; and

Z is a single bond or trans double bond.

In addition to prostaglandins wherein said prostaglandin is PGE₂, PGE₁, PGF₂.sub.α, PGF₂.sub.β, PGF₁.sub.α,PGF₁.sub.β, PGE_(o), PGF_(o).sub.α, PGF_(o).sub.β, 13,14-dihydro PGE₂, 13,14-dihydro PGF₂.sub.α and 13,14-dihydro PGF₂.sub.β, and their C₁₅ epimers having at the 15-position a hydroxy or keto group and one substituent of the formula ##EQU2## wherein Ar is α- or β-thienyl; 5-phenyl-α- or β-thienyl; 5-lower alkyl-α- or β-thienyl; α- or β-naphthyl; tropyl, phenyl; 3,5-dimethylphenyl; 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl; 3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl; 3,4-dichlorophenyl; and monosubstituted phenyl wherein said substituent is bromo, chloro, fluoro, trifluoromethyl, phenyl, lower alkyl, or lower alkoxy; and R is hydrogen or methyl.

An especially preferred series of novel compounds are represented by the formula: ##SPC3##

and its C₁₅ epimer.

Another especially preferred series of novel compounds is represented by the formula: ##SPC4##

and its C₁₅ epimer.

Still other especially preferred novel compounds are represented by the formula ##SPC5##

and its C₁₅ epimer wherein R, Ar, W and Z are as defined above.

Another especially preferred series of novel compounds are represented by the formula: ##SPC6##

Another especially preferred series of novel compounds is represented by the formula: ##SPC7##

Still other especially preferred novel compounds are represented by the formula: ##SPC8##

wherein R, Ar, W and Z are as defined above.

Especially preferred are:

15-keto-11-deshydroxy-16-(m-tolyl)-2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-ω-tetranorprostaglandin E₂, 15-keto-11-deshydroxy-16-phenyl-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-ω-tetranorprostaglandin E₂, 15-keto-11-deshydroxy -16-phenyl-2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-ω-tetranorprostaglandin E₀, 15-keto-11-deshydroxy-16-phenyl-2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl) -ω-tetranorprostaglandin E₁, 15-keto-11-deshydroxy-16-(m-tolyl)-2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-13,14-dihydro-ω-tetranorprostaglandin E₂, 15-keto-11-deshydroxy-16-(m-tolyl)-2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol -5-yl)-ω-tetranorprostaglandin F₂.sub.α, 15-keto-11-deshydroxy-16-(m-tolyl)-2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-13,14-dihydro-ω-tetranorprostaglandin F₂.sub.α, 11-deshydroxy-16-(5-phenyl-α-thienyl)-2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-ω-tetranorprostaglandin E₂, 11-deshydroxy -16-((-)-methyl)-16-phenyl-2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-ω-tetranorprostaglandin E₂, 11-deshydroxy-16-((±)-methyl)-16-phenyl-2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-ω-tetranorprostaglandin E₂, (±)-11 deshydroxy-16-(β-naphthyl)-2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-ω-tetranorprostaglandin E₂, (±)-15-epi-11-deshydroxy- 16-(β-naphthyl)-2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-ω-tetranorprostaglandin E₂, 11-deshydroxy-16-phenyl-2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-ω-tetranorprostaglandin E₀, and 11-deshydroxy-16-(m-tolyl)-2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-ω-tetranorprostaglandin E₂. This invention further comprises useful intermediates for the preparation of these prostaglandins as follows:

A compound of the structure; ##SPC9##

and the C₁₅ epimers thereof,

wherein R¹ is 2-tetrahydropyranyl or dimethyl-tert-butylsilyl and M, W, Z, Ar and R are as defined above.

A compound of the structure: ##SPC10##

wherein R₂ is alkyl of from 1 to 8 carbons, phenalkyl of up to 9 carbons, phenyl, tolyl, p-biphenyl or α- or β-naphthyl.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As shown in Scheme A, the first step (1→2) is a condensation between the known aldehyde 1 (Corey and Ravindranathan, Tetrahedron Lett, 1971, 4753 with an appropriate 3-keto phosphonate to produce enone 2. The keto phosphonate is usually produced by condensation of the appropriate carboxylic acid ester with a dialkyl methyl phosphonate. Typically the desired methyl ester is condensed with dimethyl methyl phosphonate.

Enone 2 is then reduced to enol 3 with zinc borohydride or a hindred alkyl borohydride such as lithium triethylborohydride. This reduction produces a mixture of epimers both of which may be used as substrates for further reactions. The 3 is used to produce prostaglandin analogs having an α-hydroxyl at C₁₅. The epimer of 3 is used to produce prostaglandin analogs having a β-hydroxyl at C₁₅. In addition, the mixture of C₁₅ epimers may be used to produce 15-keto prostaglandin analogs. The epimers produced in the hydride reduction can be separated by column preparative thin layer or preparative high pressure liquid chromatography. In the reduction reaction ethers such as tetrahydrofuran or 1,2-dimethoxyethane are usually employed as solvents.

Enone 2 may be reduced catalytically with hydrogen to ketone 6, a suitable starting material for the preparation of 13,14dihydroprostaglandin tetrazol analogs of the present invention. This reduction may be achieved with either a homogenous catalyst such as tris-triphenylphosphinerhodiumchloride or with a heterogenous catalyst system such as platinum, palladium or rhodium. The stage at which the reduction is carried out is not critical as will be seen below. ##SPC11##

Enone 2 may also be reduced with borohydride ion to produce alcohol 7 in a single step or alternatively, enol 3 may be catalytically reduced to produce alcohol 7 using conditions described above.

(3→4) involves the protection of the free hydroxyl group with an acid labile protecting group. Any sufficiently acid labile group is satisfactory, however, the most usual ones are tetrahydropyranyl or dimethyl-tert-butylsilyl which can be incorporated in molecule by treatment with dihydropyran and an acid catalyst, usually p-toluenesulfonic acid, in an anhydrous medium or dimethyltert-butylsilyl chloride and imidazole, respectively.

(4→5) is a reduction of the lactone 4 to hemiacetal 5 using a suitable reducing agent such as diisobutyl aluminum hydride in an inert solvent. Low reaction temperatures are preferred and -60° to -70°C. are usual. However, higher temperatures may be employed if over reduction does not occur. 5 is then purified if desired by column chromatography. As indicated in Scheme A, compounds 4 and 5 may be catalytically reduced to 8 and 9 respectively, by the procedure outlined above.

The conversion of (6→9) follows that already outlined by the conversion of (2→5).

The remainder of the synthesis of the two- series prostaglandin analogs of this invention is outlined in Scheme B. (5→10) is a Wittig condensation in which hemiacetal 5 is reacted with 4-(tetrazol- 5-yl)butyltriphenylphosphonium bromide (22) in dimethyl sulfoxide in the presence of sodium methylsulfinyl methide. ##SPC12##

10 is then purified as above. The conversion of 10→11 is an acid catalyzed hydrolysis of protecting group. Any acid may be used which does not cause destruction of the molecule in the course of the removal of the protecting group, however this is accomplished most often by the use of 65% aqueous acetic acid. Alternatively, the dimethyl-tert-butylsilyl protecting group may be removed by the action of tetraalkylammonium fluoride in a solvent such as tetrahydrofuran. The product is purified as above.

11 is an 11-desoxy 15-substituted-ω-pentanorprostaglandin of the F₂.sub.α series. The prostaglandin tetrazol analogs of the E₂ series of this invention (13) are prepared from intermediate 10 which may be oxidized by any reagent capable of oxidizing hydroxyl groups which does not attack double bonds. However, the Jones reagent is usually preferred. The product is purified as above to produce intermediate 12. Intermediate 12 may be converted into the prostaglandin analogs of the E₂ series (13) of this invention in the same manner as described for (10→11). Furthermore, intermediate 12 may be reduced with sodium borohydride to a mixture of intermediate 15 and its C₉ epimer which are separable by column, preparative thin layer, or preparative high pressure liquid chromatography and which can be converted into prostaglandin tetrazol analogs of the F₂.sub.α and F₂.sub.β series of this invention by the methods given for (10→11). Alternatively, compound 13 may be reduced with sodium borohydride to provide the F₂.sub.α and F₂.sub.β prostaglandin tetrazol analogs of this invention directly. This epimeric mixture may be separated as described above for 15 to provide pure PGF₂.sub.α and PGF₂.sub.β.

The various reduced tetrazol prostaglandin analogs of this invention, that is, prostaglandins of the one, zero and 13,14-dihydro two series are produced as shown on Scheme C. Intermediate 6 may be converted to 19 by the steps already outlined for the conversion of (2→10). 19 may then be converted to 20 by the steps discussed above for the conversion 10→15. 20 may be catalytically reduced to produce 18 (R₁ THP or (CH₃)₂ Si C(CH₃)₃) which is the precursor for the prostaglandin tetrazol analogs of the zero series of this invention by the steps previously outlined.

(16→17) is a selective catalytic hydrogenation of the 5-6 cis double bond at low temperature using catalysts such as those described above. Especially preferred for this reduction is the use of palladium on carbon as a catalyst and a reaction temperature of -20°C. 17 (R₁ THP or (CH₃)₂ Si C(CH₃)₃) is not only a precursor for the prostaglandin tetrazol analogs of the "one" series of this invention but also for the "zero" series since 17 may be reduced to 18 reducing the methods described for (4→8). Similarly, 16 may be reduced to 18 by the same procedure. The removal of the protecting groups is carried out as previously described and 17, 18, 19, and 20 wherein R₁ THP or (CH₃)₂ Si C(CH₃)₃ may be deprotected in this way to produce tetrazol prostaglandins of the "one," "zero," and "13,14-dihydro two" series of this invention. The production of prostaglandins of the E and F series wherein said prostaglandin of the "zero," "one," or "13,14-dihydro two" series from 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20 follows that previously described for the conversion of 10→11, 12, 13, 14, and 15. ##SPC13##

Furthermore,the 15-substituted-ω-pentanorprostaglandin tetrazol analogs of the E₁, F₁.sub.β and F₁.sub.α series may be obtained directly from the corresponding prostaglandin analog of the "2-series," by first protecting the hydroxyl by introducing dimethyl isopropyl silyl groups reducing selectively the cis double bond, and removing the protecting group.

The reduction is usually accomplished as discussed above for 16→17 and removal of the protecting group is accomplished by contacting reduced protected compound with 3:1 acetic acid: water for 10 minutes or until reaction is substantially complete.

2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-11-desoxy-15-substituted-ω-pentanorprostaglandin analogs of the "one" series may be prepared by the alternate synthesis summarized in Scheme D. For the first step in the preparation of the above named prostaglandin analogs, the hemiacetal 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-benzyloxymethylcyclopent-1α-yl]-acetaldehyde, γ-hemiacetal is caused to react with the disodium salt of 4-(tetrazol-5-yl)butyltriphenylphosphonium bromide (22) as described above for 5→10. This tetrazol-containing intermediate may be converted by procedures described in detail in the appended examples as summarized below.

As shown in Scheme D, hemiacetal 21 is caused to react with the reagent 22 to produce 23. ##SPC14##

23→24 involves acylation of 23 with acetic anhydride and pyridine to form an acetate intermediate. Other blocking groups may be used provided the group is stable to hydrogenation and mild acid hydrolysis. Such groups include alkanoyl of from 2 to 9 carbons phenalkanoyl of up to 10 carbons, benzoyl, toloyl, p-phenyl benzoyl or α- or β-naphthoyl. The protected benzyl ether upon reduction with hydrogen and palladium on carbon in an appropriate solvent containing a suitable acid catalyst, ethanol and acetic acid or ethyl acetate and hydrochloric acid being especially preferred, affords a hydroxy compound oxidation of which with Collins' reagent yields aldehyde 24.

24→17 involves treatment of 24 with the sodium salt of the appropriate 3-ketophosphonate under conditions described for 1→2, to form an enone reduction of which with a hindred alkyl borohydride such as lithium triethylborohydride or zinc borohydride forms an enol. The hydroxyl group is then protected by treatment with dihydropyran to form a tetrahydropyranyl ether. Other protecting groups may be employed provided they stable to mild basic hydrolysis and easily removable by mild acid hydrolysis. Such groups include tetrahydrofuryl, or dimethyl-t-butyl silyl. This protected compound is then contacted with aqueous sodium hydroxide to yield 17. The conversion of 17 to the 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-11-desoxy-15-substituted-ω-pentanorprostaglandins of the "one" series of this invention follows the procedure outlined above. ##SPC15##

2-Descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-11-desoxy-15-keto-15-substituted-ω-pentanorprostaglandins E of this invention may be prepared as summarized in Scheme E. 25→26 involves oxidation of the alcohol moieties of 25. Any reagent capable of oxidizing hydroxyl groups which does not attack double bonds may be used, however, the Jones' reagent is usually preferred. The 15-keto-prostaglandin E analogs of this inventin of the 13,14-dihydro two-, one-, and zero- series may be prepared from compounds 27, 29 and 31 as described for 25→26 above.

Scheme F summarizes the preparation of the 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-11-desoxy-15-keto-15-substituted-ω-pentanorprostaglandin F.sub.β and F.sub.β analogs of this invention. 33→34 involves acylation of 33 with acetic anhydride and pyridine to form an acetate intermediate. Other blocking groups may be used provided the group is stable to mild acid hydrolysis. Such groups include alkanoyl of from 2 to 9 carbons, phenalkanoyl of up to 10 carbons, benzoyl, tolyl, p-phenylbenzoyl, or α- or β-naphthoyl. The protectin group at C₁₅ is then removed as described above to provide a second intermediate. The next step involves oxidation of the C₁₅ alcohol moiety to provide a third intermediate. Any reagent capable of oxidizing hydroxyl groups which does not attack double bonds may be used, however, the Jones' reagent is usually preferred. The last step in this sequence involves transesterification of the protecting group at C₉. ##SPC16##

This is usually done by treatment with anhydrous potassium carbonate in an alcoholic solvent such as methanol, which affords the 15-keto F₂.sub.α or F₂.sub.β analogs of this invention. The 15-keto-prostaglandin F.sub.α or F.sub.β analogs of the present invention of the 13,14-dihydro two-, one-, and zero- series may be prepared from compounds 35, 37, and 39 as described for 33→34. It shold be noted that the stereochemistry of the hydroxyl group at C₁₅ is unimportant for the preparation of all 15-keto compounds of the present invention; 15β,15α, or an epimeric mixture will all afford the same 15-keto analog.

In the foregoing procedures, where purification by column chromatography is desired, appropriate chromatographic supports include neutral alumina and silica gel and 60-200 mesh silica gel is generally preferred. The chromatography is suitably conducted in reaction-inert solvents such as ether, ethyl acetate, benzene, chloroform, methylene chloride, cyclohexane and n-hexane, as further illustrated in the appended examples. Where purification by high pressure liquid chromatography is desired, appropriate supports include `Corasil,` `Porasil,` and `Lichrosorb` with inert solvents such as ether, chloroform, methylenechloride, cyclohexane and n-hexane being employed.

It will be seen that the foregoing formulae depict optically active compounds. Although only one optical antipode is depicted it is intended that both optical antipodes (i.e. ent and nat) be embraced by the foregoing formulae herein and in the appended claims. It will be clear, in addition, that the corresponding racemates will exhibit valuable biological activity and it is also intended that such racemates also be embraced by the foregoing formulae herein and in the appended claims. The racemic mixtures are readily prepared by the same methods employed herein to synthesize the optically active species, by mere substitution of corresponding racemic precursors in place of optically active (i.e. ent and nat) starting materials. Furthermore, in the foregoing formulae wherein R is methyl an addition chiral center is created. It is intended that both R and S (+ and -), as well as, racemic forms at this center be embraced by the foregoing formulae herein and in the appended claims.

In numerous in vivo and in vitro tests we have demonstrated that the new prostaglandin analogs possess physiological activities of greater selectivity, potency, and duration of action to those exhibited by the natural prostaglandins (see above). These tests include, among others, a test for effect on isolated smooth muscle from guinea pig uterus, inhibitin of histamine-induced bronchospasm in the guinea pig, effect on dog blood pressure, inhibition of stress-induced ulceration in the rat, diarrheal effect in the mouse, and inhibition of stimulated gastric acid secretion in rats and dogs.

The physiological responses observed in these tests are useful in determining the utility of the test substance for the treatment of various natural and pathological conditions. Such determined utilities include: vasodilator activity, antihypertensive activity, bronchodilator activity, antifertility activity and antiulcer activity.

The novel 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-11-desoxy-15-substituted-ω-pentanorprostaglandins of this invention possess highly selective activity profiles compared with the corresponding naturally occurring prostaglandins and, in many cases, exhibit a longer duration of action. The novel prostaglandin analogs of this invention possess useful vasodilator activity. A prime example of the therapeutic importance of these prostaglandin analogs is the efficacy of 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-11-desoxy-16-phenyl-ω-tetranorprostaglandin Eo and 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-11-desoxy-15-((+)-1-phenyleth-1-yl)-ω-pentanorprostaglandin E₂ which exhibits hypotensive activity of greatly enhanced potency and duration as compared with PGE₂ itself. At the same time, the smooth muscle stimulating activity is markedly depressed in comparison with PGE₂. In a similar manner, other E and F.sub.β analogs of this invention exhibit desirable hypotensive activity.

In addition, 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-11-desoxy-16-phenyl-ω-tetranorprostaglandin E₂ and 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-11-desoxy-16-(5-phenyl-α-thienyl)-.omega.-tetranorprostaglandin E₂ exhibit high bronchodilator activity with reduced non-vascular smooth muscle activity. In similar fashion, other 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-11-desoxy-15-substituted-ω-pentanorprostaglandin E₁ and E₂ analogs of the present invention display desirable bronchodilator activity.

Another outstanding example of the therapeutic importance of these prostaglandin analogs is the potent, selective antiulcer and antisecretory activity displayed by the 2-descarboxy-2-tetrazol-5-yl)-11-desoxy-16-(β-naphthyl)-ω-tetranor PGE₂ and 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazole-5-yl)-11-desoxy-15-keto-16-(m-tolyl)-ω-tetranor PGE₂. Similarly, other PGE and 15-keto analogs of this invention possess these desirable gastrointestinal effects.

The esters of the prostaglandin analogs of this invention which are acylated at C₉ and/or C₁₅ are readily prepared from the corresponding parent by acylation which is usually carried out using carboxylic acid anhydride or carboxylic acid chloride as the acylation agents. Such acyl groups are lower alkanoyl, benzoyl and substituted benzoyl wherein said substituent is halo, trifluoromethyl, lower alkoxy or phenyl or formyl. Such esters possess the activity of the prostaglandin analog from which they are derived.

The prostaglandin analogs which have a beta hydroxyl at C₁₅ and possess a C₁₅ lower alkyl group have action which is similar to their epimers. In some cases, however, the selectivity that these compound display, such as the antiulcer activity of the 15-epi-16-m-tolyl PGE₂ analog, exceeds that of the epimeric compounds. Pharmacological acceptable salts useful for the purposes described above are those with pharmacologically acceptable metal cations, ammonium, amine cations, or quaternary ammonium cations.

Especially preferred metal cations are those derived from the alkali metals, e.g., lithium, sodium and potassium, and from the alkaline earth metals, e.g., magnesium and calcium, although cationic forms of other metals, e.g., aluminum, zinc, and iron, are within the scope of this invention.

Pharmacologically acceptable amine cations are those derived from primary, secondary, or tertiary amines. Examples of suitable amines are methylamine, dimethylamine, triethylamine, ethylamine, dibutylamine, triisopropylamine, N-methylhexylamine, decylamine, dodecylamine, allylamine, crotylamine, cyclopentylamine, dicyclohexylamine, benzylamine, dibenzylamine, α-phenylethylamine, β-phenylethylamine, ethylenediamine, diethylenetriamine, and like aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, and araliphatic amines containing up to and including about 18 carbon atoms, as well as heterocyclic amines, e.g., piperidine, morpholine, pyrrolidine, piperazine, and lower-alkyl derivatives thereof, e.g., 1-methylpyrrolidine, 1,4-dimethylpiperazine, 2-methylpiperidine, and the like, as well as amines containing water-solubilizing or hydrophilic groups, e.g., mono-, di-, and triethanolamine, ethyldiethanolamine, N-butylethanolamine, 2-amino-1-butanol, 2-amino-2 - ethyl-1,3-propanediol, 2-amino-2-methyl-1-propanol, tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane, N-phenylethanolamine, N-(p-tert-amylphenyl)diethanolamine, galactamine, N-methylglucamine, N-methylglucosamine, epherdrine, phenylephrine, epinephrine, procaine, and the like.

Examples of suitable pharmacologically acceptable quaternary ammonium cations are tetramethylammonium, tetraethylammonium, benzyltrimethylammonium, phenyltriethylammonium and the like.

The new compounds of this invention can be used in a variety of pharmaceutical preparations which contain the compound or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and they may be administered in the same manner as natural prostaglandins by a variety of routes, such as intravenous, oral and topical, including aerosol, intravaginal, and intranasal, among others.

To produce bronchodilation or to increase nasal potency, an appropriate dosage form would be an aqueous ethanolic solution of 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-11-desoxy-16-Ar-substituted-ω-tetranor PGE₁ or PGE₂ employed as an aerosol using fluorinated hydrocarbons as propellant in the amount of from about 3-500 μg/dose.

The 16-Ar substituted-ω-tetranorprostaglandin analogs of the E₀ and 13,14-dihydro E₂ or F.sub.β series of the present invention are useful hypotensive agents. For treatment of hypertension these drugs could appropriately be administered as an intravenous injection at doses of about 0.5-10 μg/kg or preferably in the form of capsules or tablets at doses of 0.005 to 0.5 mg/kg/day.

The 15-keto-16-Ar substituted-ω-tetranorprostaglandin analogs or 15-epi-16-Ar substituted-ω-tetranorprostaglandin E analogs of the present invention are useful antiulcer agents. For treatment of peptic ulcers these drugs may be administered in the form of capsules or tablets at doses of 0.005 to 0.5 mg/kg/day.

To prepare any of the above dosage forms or any of the numerous other forms possible, various reaction-inert diluents, excipients or carriers may be employed. Such substances include, for example, water, ethanol, gelatins, lactose, starches, magnesium stearate, talc, vegetable oils, benzyl alcohols, gums, polyalkylene glycols, petroleum jelly, cholesterol and other known carriers for medicaments. If desired, these pharmaceutical compositions may contain auxiliary substances such as preserving agents, wetting agents, stabilizing agents, or other therapeutic agents such as antibiotics.

The following examples are merely illustrative, and in no way limit the scope of the appended claims. In these examples it will be appreciated that all temperatures are expressed in Centigrade, all melting and boiling points are uncorrected.

EXAMPLE I Dimethyl 2-Oxo-3-phenylpropylphosphonate

A solution of 6.2 g. (50 mmoles) dimethyl methylphosphonate (Aldrich) in 125 ml dry tetrahydrofuran was cooled to -78° in a dry nitrogen atmosphere. To the stirred phosphonate solution was added 21 ml of 2.37 M n-butyllithium in hexane solution (Alfa Inorganics, Inc.) dropwise over a period of 18 minutes at such a rate that the reaction temperature never rose above -65°. After an additional 5 minutes stirring at -78°, 7.5 g (50.0 mmole) methyl was added dropwise at a rate that kept the reaction temperature less than -70° (20 minutes). After 3.5 hours at -78° the reaction mixture was allowed to warm to ambient temperature, neutralized with 6 ml acetic acid and rotary evaporated to a white gel. The gelatonous material was taken up in 75 ml water, the aqueous phase extracted with 100 ml portions of chloroform (3x), the combined organic extracts were backwashed (50 cc H.sub. 2 O), dried (MgSO₄), and concentrated (water aspirator) to a crude residue and distilled, b.p. 134-5° (<0.1 mm) to give 3.5 g (29%) dimethyl 2-oxo-3-phenylpropylphosphonate.

The nmr spectrum (CDCl₃) showed a doublet centered at 3.7δ (J=11.5 cps, 6H) for ##EQU3## a triplet centered at 3.37δ (2H) for CH₃ --O--CH₂ --CH₂ --, a singlet at 3.28δ (3H) for CH₃ --O--CH₂ --, a doublet centered at 3.14δ (J=23 cps, 2H) ##EQU4## a singlet at 3.9δ (2H) for ##EQU5## and a broad singlet at 7.2δ (6H) for C₆ H₅ --.

EXAMPLE II 2-[5α-Hydroxy-2β-(3-oxo-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)-cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone (2a)

Method A:

Dimethyl 2-oxo-3-phenylpropylphosphonate (6.93 g, 28.6 mmole) in 420 ml anhydrous THF was treated with 1.21 g (28.6 mmole) 57% sodium hydride in a dry nitrogen atmosphere at room temperature. After 60 min. of stirring the known 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-formylcyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone (1) in 50 ml anhydrous THF was added. After 95 minutes the reaction mixture was quenched with 4.2 ml glacial acetic acid, filtered, evaporated and combined with 250 ml ethyl acetate which was washed successively with 100 ml saturated sodium bicarbonate solution (2x), 150 ml water (1x), 150 ml saturated brine (1x), dried (Na₂ SO₄) and evaporated to yield 2.51 g 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3-oxo-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone (2a) as a solid after column chromatography (Silica gel, Baker, 60-200 mesh), m.p. 52°-56°, [α]_(D) ²⁵ =+35.0° (C=0.8, CHCl₃).

The nmr spectrum (CDCl₃) exhibited a doublet of doublets centered at 6.80δ (1H, J=7, 16 cps) and a doublet centered at 6.27δ (1H, J=16 cps) for the olefinic protons, a broad singlet at 7.26δ (5H) for ##EQU6## a singlet at 3.82δ (2H) for ##EQU7## and multiplets at 4.78-5.18δ (1H) and 1.2-2.8δ (8H) for the remainder of the protons.

Method B:

To a solution of 6.93 g (28.6 mmoles) of dimethyl 2-oxo-3-phenylpropylphosphonate in 200 ml of 1,2-dimethoxyethane, cooled to 0°, is added 28 ml of a 1.0M solution of n-butyllithium in hexane. The solution is let stir for 5 minutes then 3.85 g (25 mmoles) of the aldehyde 1 is added. The mixture is warmed to room temperature and is stirred for 2 hours, then is quenched by the addition of glacial acetic acid. The quenched reaction is concentrated, then diluted with methylene chloride. The organic layer is washed with saturated NaHCO₃, water, and saturated brine, is dried (anhydrous MgSO₄), and is concentrated. Purification of the crude product by column chromatography affords the desired 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3-oxo-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid γ-lactone (2a).

EXAMPLE III 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3α-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone (3a) and 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3β-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone (epi 3a)

To a solution of 2.5 g (9.25 mmole) 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3-oxo-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone (2) in 30 ml dry THF in a dry nitrogen atmosphere at -78° was added dropwise 9.25 ml of a 1.0M lithium triethylborohydride solution. After stirring at -78° for 30 min., 20 ml of acetic acid/water (40:60) was added. After the reaction came to room temperature, 40 ml of water was added and the reaction was extracted with methylene chloride (3×50 ml), washed with brine (2×5 ml), dried (Na₂ SO₄) and concentrated (water aspirator). The resultant oil was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (Baker "Analyzed" Reagent 60-200 mesh) using cyclohexane and ether as eluents. After elution of less polar impurities a fraction containing 365 mg 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3α-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans- 1-buten-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone (3a), a 578 mg fraction of mixed 3a and epi 3a and finally a fraction (489 mg) of 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3β-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone epi 3a were obtained.

The 3a had [α]_(d) ²⁵ =+6.623° (C=1.0, CHCl₃) and epi 3 had [α]_(D) ²⁵ =+24.305° (C=1.69, CHCl₃).

The product of this Example (epi 3a) may also be converted to 15-epi- or 15-keto-2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-16-phenyl-11-desoxy-ω-tetranorprostaglandin E, F.sub.α and F.sub.β of the two-, one-, zero- and 13,14-dihydro two- series by the procedures of Examples IV-XII, XXVI, XXIX-XXXII, and XXXVIII.

The products of this Example (3a and epi 3a) may be converted by the procedure of Example XXVI to 7a and epi 7a, intermediates suitable for the preparation of the 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-13,14-dihydro-16-phenyl-11-desoxy-ω-tetranorprostaglandins E₂, F₂.sub.α and F₂.sub.β of this invention.

EXMPLE IV 2-[5α-Hydroxy-2β-(3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone (4a)

To a solution of 805 mg (2.96 mmole) 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3α-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone (3a) in 20 ml anhydrous methylene chloride and 0.735 ml of 2,3-dihydropyran at 0° in a dry nitrogen atmosphere was added 35.3 mg p-toluenesulfonic acid, monohydrate. After stirring for 35 minutes, the reaction mixture was combined with 150 ml ether, the ether solution washed with saturated sodium bicarbonate (2×100ml) then saturated brine (1×100 ml), dried (Na₂ SO₄) and concentrated to yield 1.2 g (>100%) crude 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone (4a).

The ir (CHCl₃) spectrum had a medium adsorbtion at 975 cm⁻ ¹ for the trans-double bond and a strong adsorbtion at 1770 cm⁻ ¹ of the lactone carbonyl.

EXAMPLE V 2-[5α-Hydroxy-2β-(3α-dimethyl-tert-butylsilyloxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone (4a)

A solution of 548 mg (2.0 mmole) of 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3α-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone (3a), 375 mg (2.5 mmole) of dimethyl-tert-butylsilyl chloride, and 340 mg (5.0 mmole) of imidazole in 1.0 ml of dimethylformamide is heated at 35° for 18 hours. The reaction mixture is then diluted with water and the aqueous layer extracted with methylene chloride. The organic extracts are dried (anhydrous MgSO₄) and concentrated to provide the desired 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3α-dimethyl-tert-butylsilyloxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone (4a).

The product of this Example (4a) may be converted by the procedures of Example XXVI to 7a, an intermediate suitable for the preparation of the 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-13,14-dihydro-16-phenyl-11-desoxy-ω-tetranorprostaglandins E₂, F₂.sub.α and F₂.sub.β of this invention.

EXAMPLE VI 2-[5α-Hydroxy-2β-(3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl/acetaldehyde, γ-hemiacetal (5a)

A solution of 1.1 g (2.96 mmole) 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-[3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl]cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone (4a) in 15 ml dry toluene was cooled to -78° in a dry nitrogen atmosphere. To this cooled solution was added 4.05 ml of 20% diisobutylaluminum hydride in a n-hexane (Alfa Inorganics) dropwise at such a rate so that the internal temperature never rose above -65° (15 minutes). After an additional 30 minutes of stirring at -78°, anhydrous methanol was added until gas evolution ceased and the reaction mixture was allowed to warm to room temperature. The reaction mixture was combined with 150 ml ether, washed with 50% sodium potassium tartrate solution (2×50 ml), brine (1×75 ml), dried (Na₂ SO₄) and concentrated to yield 883 mg 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3α-(tetrahydropyran- 2-yloxy)-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopent-1-yl]acetaldehyde, γ-hemaicetal (5a) after column chromatography.

The product of this Example (5a) may be converted by the procedure of Example XXVI to 9a, an intermediate suitable for the preparation of the 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-13,14-dihydro-16-phenyl-11-desoxy-ω-tetranorprostaglandins E₂, F₂.sub.α and F₂.sub.β of this invention.

EXAMPLE VII 5α-hydroxy-2β-[3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl]-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]cyclopentane (10a)

To a solution of 4.6 g (9.8 mmole) [4-(tetrazol-5-yl)-n-butyl]triphenylphosphonium bromide in a dry nitrogen atmosphere in 20 ml dry dimethyl sulfoxide was added 9.8 ml (19.6 mmole) of a 2M solution of sodium methylsulfinylmethide in dimethyl sulfoxide. To this red ylide solution was added dropwise a solution of 883 mg (2.46 mmole) 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3α-tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetaldehyde, γ-hemiacetal (5a) in 10 ml dry dimethyl sulfoxide over a period of 20 minutes. After an additional 1 hour stirring at room temperature the reaction mixture is poured onto ice water, ethyl acetate (150 ml) and 20 ml 1.0N HCl. The acidic solution was further extracted with ethyl acetate (2×75 ml) and the combined organic extracts washed twice with water (100 ml), brine (1×100 ml), dried (MgSO₄) and evaporated to a solid residue. The residue was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (Baker "Analyzed" Reagent 60-200 mesh) using chloroform and ethyl acetate as eluents. After removal of high R_(f) impurities, 576 mg of 5α-hydroxy-2β-[3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl]-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]cyclopentane (10a) was collected.

The product of this Example (10a) may be hydrolyzed as described in Example IX to provide the 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-11-desoxy-16-phenyl-ω-tetranor PGF₂.sub.α (11a).

This product (11a) may be hydrogenated as described in Examples XI and XII to afford the corresponding PGF₁.sub.α and PGF₀.sub.α analogs.

EXAMPLE VIII 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]-3β-[3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl]cyclopentanone (12a)

To a solution cooled to -10° under nitrogen of 576 mg (1.24 mmole) (10a) in 20 ml reagent grade acetone was added dropwise to 0.56 ml (1.48 mmole) of Jones' reagent. After 15 minutes at -10°, 0.4 ml 2-propanol was added and the reaction mixture was allowed to stir an additional 5 minutes at which time it was combined with 150 ml ethyl acetate, washed with water (2×50 ml), dried (MgSO₄) and concentrated to give 566 mg of the desired 2α-[6-tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]-3β-[3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl]cyclopentanone (12a) which was used without purification.

Reduction of the product of this Example (12a) by the procedure of Example X followed by hydrolysis as described in Example IX provides the 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-11-desoxy-16-phenyl-ω-tetranor PGF₂.sub.α and PGF₂.sub.β.

EXAMPLE IX 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]-3β-(3α-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopentanone (13a)

A solution of 566 mg (12a) in 5.6 ml of a 65:35 mixture of glacial acetic acid:water was stirred under nitrogen at 25° for 18 hours then was concentrated by rotary evaporation. The resultant crude oil was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (Baker 60-200 mesh) using chloroform and ethyl acetate as eluents. After elution of less polar impurities the oily 13a weighing 89 mg was collected. The ir (CHCl₃) exhibited a strong adsorbtion at 1730 cm⁻ ¹ for the cyclopentanone carbonyl and a medium adsorbtion at 973 cm⁻ ¹ for the trans double bond. The specific rotation (C 0.89, CHCl₃) was recorded at three wavelengths: [α]_(D) ²⁵ =-20.8°; [α]₄₃₆ ²⁵ =-73.5°; [α]₃₆₅ ²⁵ =-239.9°.

EXAMPLE X 5α-hydroxy-2β-[3α-hydroxy-4-phenylbut-1-yl]-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)hex-1-yl]cyclopentane and 5β-hydroxy-2β-[3α-hydroxy-4-phenylbut-1-yl]-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)hex-1-yl]cyclopentane

To a solution, cooled to 0°, of 100 mg of the 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)hex-1-yl]-3β-[3α-hydroxy-4-phenylbut-1-yl]cyclopentanone in 10 ml of methanol is added a cooled solution of 300 mg of sodium borohydride in 35 ml of methanol. The mixture is stirred at 0°-5° for 30 minutes then 2 ml of water is added. After removal of the methanol by rotary evaporation, the aqueous layer is overlaid with ethyl acetate and is acidified to pH 3 with 10% HCl. The aqueous layer is extracted with ethyl acetate and the combined organic extracts are washed with water and saturated brine, are dried (anhydrous MgSO₄), and are concentrated. Purification of the crude product by column chromatography affords the desired 5α-hydroxy-2β-[3α-hydroxy-4-phenylbut-1-yl]-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)hex-1-yl]-cyclopentane and 5β-hydroxy-2β-[3α -hydroxy-4-phenylbut-1-yl]-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)hex-1-yl]cyclopentane.

EXAMPLE XI 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)hex-1-yl]-3β-[3α-hydroxy-4-phenylbut-1-yl]-cyclopentanone

A mixture of 500 mg of 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]-3β-[3α-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl]cyclopentanone and 50 mg of 10% palladium on carbon in 50 ml of ethyl acetate is stirred under 1 atmosphere of hydrogen for 3 hours. The mixture is filtered and the filtrate concentrated to provide, after purification by column chromatography, the 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-hex-1-yl]-3β-[3α-hydroxy-4-phenylbut-1-yl]-cyclopentanone.

EXAMPLE XII 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)hex-1-yl]-3β-[3α-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl]cyclopentanone

A solution of 46 mg 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]-3β-[3α-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl]cyclopentanone in 5 ml of dry ether is treated with 448 mg (3.6 mmole) dimethyl isopropyl chlorosilane and 360 mg (3.6 mmole) triethylamine at 25° for 48 hours. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0°, methanol is added and the resulting solution is washed with water (3 × 2 ml), dried (MgSO₄) and evaporated to a residue (67 mg). The crude residue is then taken up in 6 ml methanol and 30 mg of 5% Pd/C and the resultant slurry is hydrogenated for 4 hours at -22° (CCl₄ /Dry ICE). After filtration through super cell and evaporation, the hydrogenated product is hydrolyzed in 2 ml of acetic acid-water (3:1) for 10 minutes, diluted with water (20 ml) and extracted with ethyl acetate (4 × 15 ml). The combined organic extracts are washed with water (2 × 10 ml), dried (MgSO₄) and evaporated to yield 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)hex-1-yl]-3β-[3α-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl]cyclopentanone after column chromatography.

EXAMPLE XIII 2-[2β-benzyloxymethyl-5α-hydroxycyclopent-1α-yl]acetaldehyde, γ-hemiacetal (21)

To a solution, cooled to -78° under nitrogen, of 10.0 g (40.5 mmoles) of the known 2-[2β-benzyloxymethyl-5α-hydroxycyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone in 100 ml of toluene was added 55.5 ml of a 20% solution of diisobutylaluminum hydride in hexane (Alfa). The solution was stirred for 40 minutes then was quenched in the cold by the dropwise addition of methanol until gas evolution ceased. The quenched reaction mixture was let warm to room temperature, then was concentrated. The resultant oil was slurried in hot methanol, filtered, and the filtrate was concentrated. Purification of the crude product by silica gel chromatography using mixtures of benzene: ethylacetate as eluents afforded the desired 2-[2β-benzyloxymethyl-5α-hydroxycyclopent-1α-yl]acetaldehyde, γ-hemiacetal (21a) as a viscous oil weighing 8.91 g (86% yield).

EXAMPLE XIV 5α-hydroxy-2β-benzyloxymethyl-1α-[6-tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]cyclopentene (23a)

To a solution of 11.7 g (25.0 mmoles) of [4-(tetrazol-5-yl)-butyl]triphenylphosphonium bromide in 25 ml of dimethyl sulfoxide was added dropwise 27 ml of a 1.81 M solution of sodium methylsulfinylmethide in dimethyl sulfoxide. To the resultant red ylide solution was added a solution of 2.48 g (10.0 mmoles) of the 2-[2β-benzyloxymethyl-5α-hydroxycyclopent-1α-yl]acetaldehyde, γ-hemiacetal (21a) in 20 ml of dimethyl sulfoxide. After being stirred for 1.5 hours under nitrogen at room temperature the reaction was poured onto ice-water. The basic aqueous solution was extracted with a 2:1 mixture of ethyl acetate: ether was then laid with ethyl acetate, was acidified to pH 3 with 10% aqueous hydrochloric acid, and was extracted with ethyl acetate. The combined ethyl acetate extracts were washed with water, dried (anhydrous magnesium sulfate), and concentrated. The crude product was dissolved in ethyl acetate and was let crystallize. Concentration of the filtrate provided the desired 5α-hydroxy-2β-benzyloxymethyl- 1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]cyclopentane (23a) weighing 5.32 g which was used without purification.

EXAMPLE XV 5α-acetoxy-2β-benzyloxymethyl-1α-[6 -(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]cyclopentane

A mixture of 5.32 g (10.0 mmoles) of the crude alcohol of Example XIV, 30.0 ml of pyridine and 4.43 ml (46.8 mmoles) of acetic anhydride was stirred under nitrogen at 50° for 5.5 hours. The mixture was poured onto 200 ml of cold 6N hydrochloric acid. The aqueous layer was extracted with ethyl acetate. The organic extracts were washed with water and saturated brine, were dried (anhydrous magnesium sulfate), and were concentrated. Purification of the crude product by silica gel chromatography using mixtures of benzene: ethyl acetate as eluents provided the desired 5α-acetoxy- 2β-benzyloxymethyl-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]cyclopentane weighing 2.78 g (70% yield).

EXAMPLE XVI 5α-acetoxy-2β-hydroxymethyl-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-hex-1-yl]cyclopentane

A heterogeneous mixture of 2.38 g (5.97 mmoles) of the chromatographed benzyl ether of Example XV, 500 mg of 10% palladiuim on carbon, and 24 ml of a 20:1 mixture of absolute ethanol:glacial acetic acid was stirred at room temperature under one atmosphere of hydrogen for 19 hours. The mixture was then filtered through Celite 545 and the filtrate was concentrated and was azeotroped under reduced pressure with toluene to provide the desired 5α-acetoxy-2β-hydroxymethyl-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-hex-1-yl]cyclopentane weighing 1.74 g (94% yield), which was recrystallized from ethyl acetate: hexane (m.p. 65.5°-66°).

EXAMPLE XVII 5α-acetoxy-2β-formyl-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-hex-1-yl]cyclopentane (24a)

To a stirred solution of 3.88 ml (48.0 mmoles) of pyridine in 58 ml of methylene chloride, cooled to 10° to 15° under nitrogen, was added portionwise over a period of 30 minutes 2.40 g (24.0 mmoles) of chromium trioxide. The dark burgundy solution was let warm to room temperature then was cooled to 0°. To the cold solution was added a solution of 930 mg (3.0 mmoles) of the alcohol of Example XVI in 9.0 ml of methylene chloride with the concomitant formation of a dense black precipitate. The suspension was stirred in the cold for 45 minutes then 8.30 g (60.0 mmoles) of finely ground sodium bisulfite monohydrate was added. After being stirred for 10 minutes 7.22 g (60.0 mmoles) of anhydrous magnesium sulfate was added. After being stirred for 5 minutes the dark suspension was filtered through a pad of Celite, was washed with methylene chloride, then was concentrated. Purification of the crude product by silica gel chromatography using a 1:1 mixture of methylene chloride: ethyl acetate as eluent afforded the desired 5α-acetoxy-2β-formyl-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-hex-1-yl] cyclopentane (24a) as a colorless oil weighing 633 mg (69.0% yield).

EXAMPLE XVIII 5α-acetoxy-2β-(3-oxo-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-hex-1-yl]cyclopentane

To a suspension of 260 mg (6.18 mmoles) of a 57.0% dispersion of sodium hydride in mineral oil in 30 ml of tetrahydrofuran was added 1.58 g (6.18 mmoles) of the known dimethyl-2-oxo-3-phenylpropylphosphonate. The mixture was stirred at room temperature for 20 minutes under nitrogen with the concomitant formation of a yellow precipitate. To this suspension was added a solution of 6.33 mg (2.06 mmoles) of the aldehyde of Example XVII in 5 ml of tetrahydrofuran. The solution was stirred at room temperature for 50 minutes under nitrogen then was quenched by the addition of glacial acetic acid to pH 5 and was concentrated. The resultant mixture was dissolved in ethyl acetate; the organic layer was washed with water and saturated brine, was dried (anhydrous magnesium sulfate), and was concentrated. Purification of the crude product by dry column chromatography (silica gel) afforded the desired 5α-acetoxy-2β-(3-oxo-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1yl)-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5yl)-hex-1-yl]cyclopentane as a colorless oil weighing 533 mg (61% yield).

EXAMPLE XIX 5α-acetoxy-2β-(3α-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)-1.alpha.-[6 -(tetrazol-5-yl)hex-1-yl]cyclopentane

To a solution, cooled to -78°, of 849 mg (2.0 mmoles) of the enone of Example XVIII in 20 ml of tetrahydrofuran is added 4.0 ml (4.0 mmoles) of a 1.0 M solution of lithium tri-ethylborohydride in tetrahydrofuran. The solution is stirred at -78° under nitrogen for 0.5 hour then is quenched by the addition of 10 ml of 40% aqueous acetic acid. The quenched reaction mixture is let warm to room temperature and is extracted with ethyl acetate; the combined organic extracts are washed with water and saturated brine, are dried (anhydrous magnesium sulfate), are concentrated, and azeotroped with toluene. Purification of the crude product by silica gel chromatography provides the 5α-acetoxy-2β-(3α-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)-1.alpha.-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-hex-1-yl]cyclopentane and the 5α-acetoxy-2β-(3β-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)-1.alpha.-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)hex-1-yl]cyclopentane.

The 5α-acetoxy-2β-(3β-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)-1.alpha.-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)hex-1-yl]cyclopentane may be converted by the procedures in Example XX-XXIII to 11-deshydroxy-15-epi-2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)PGE₁ and PGF₁.sub.α.

EXAMPLE XX 5α-hydroxy-2β-(3α-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)-1.alpha.-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-hex-1-yl]cyclopenntane (17a)

A solution of 424 mg (1.00 mmole) of the alcohol of Example XIX, 3.0 ml (3.0 mmoles) of 1.0 N aqueous sodium hydroxide, 3.0 ml of tetrahydrofuran, and 3.0 ml of absolute methanol is stirred under nitrogen at room temperature for 2.5 hours. The solution is then acidified by the addition of 3.0 ml of 1.0N hydrochloric acid and is extracted with ethyl acetate. The combined organic extracts are dried (anhydrous magnesium sulfate) and concentrated. Purification of the crude product by silica gel chromatography provides the desired 5α-hydroxy-2β-(3α-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)-1.alpha.-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-hex-1-yl]cyclopentane.

EXAMPLE XXI 5α-acetoxy-2β-(3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-hex-1-yl]cyclopentane

A solution of 250 mg of the alcohol of Example XIX, 0.250 ml of dihydropyran, 2.5 ml of methylene chloride, and 2.5 mg of p-toluenesulfonic acid monohydrate is stirred at room temperature under nitrogen for 15 minutes. The reaction mixture is then diluted with ether, washed with water, is dried (anhydrous magnesium sulfate), and is concentrated to provide the desired 5α-acetoxy-2β-(3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-hex-1-yl]cyclopentane.

EXAMPLE XXII 5α-hydroxy-2β-(3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-hex-1-yl]cyclopentane

A homogeneous solution of 221 mg (0.436 mmole) of the crude THP ether of Example XXI, 1.30 ml (1.30 mmoles) of a 1.0N aqueous sodium hydroxide solution, 1.3 ml of methanol, and 1.3 ml of tetrahydrofuran is stirred at room temperature overnight. The reaction mixture is then quenched by the addition of 1.30 ml (1.30 mmoles) of a 1.0 N aqueous hydrochloric acid solution and is diluted with ethyl acetate. The organic layer is dried (anhydrous magnesium sulfate) and concentrated. Purification of the crude product by silica gel chromatography affords the desired 5α-hydroxy-2β-(3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)hex-1-yl]cyclopentane.

EXAMPLE XXIII 1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-hex-1-yl]-2β-(3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-phenyl-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopentanone

To a solution, cooled to -23° under nitrogen, of 178 mg (0.371 mmole) of the alcohol of Example XXII in 4.0 ml of acetone is added dropwise 0.163 ml (0.408 mmole) of Jones' reagent. The reaction is stirred in the cold for 15 minutes then is quenched by the addition of 0.163 ml of isopropyl alcohol. The quenched reaction is stirred in the cold for 5 minutes then is diluted with ethyl acetate. The organic solution is washed with water, is dried (anhydrous magnesium sulfate), and is concentrated to afford the desired 1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)hex-1yl]-2β-(3α-tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopentanone which is used without purification.

EXAMPLE XXIV 1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-hex-1-yl]-2β-(3α-hydroxy-trans-4-phenyl-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopentanone

A homogeneous solution of 0.190 g of the crude THP ether of Example XXIII in 2.0 ml of a 65:35 mixture of glacial acetic acid: water is stirred under nitrogen at room temperature for 12 hours, then is concentrated and azeotroped with toluene. Purification of the crude product by silica gel chromatography affords the desired 1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)hex-1-yl]-2β-(3α-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopentanone.

EXAMPLE XXV 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3-oxo-4-(m-tolyl)but-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]-acetic acid, γ-lactone (6b)

A mixture of 6.8 g (23 mmoles) of 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3-oxo-4-(m-tolyl)-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone, (2b) 50 ml of ethyl acetate, and 670 mg of 10% palladium on carbon was hydrogenated on a Parr shaker. The mixture was filtered and the filtrate concentrated to provide 6.8 g of the desired 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3-oxo-4-(m-tolyl)but-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone (6b) as an oil which crystallized upon standing (m.p. 60°-62°).

The ir spectrum (CHCl₃) of 6b exhibited strong absorptions at 1765 and 1700 cm⁻ ¹.

The product of this Example (6b) may be converted to the 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-11-desoxy-16-(m-tolyl)-13,14-dihydro-.omega.-tetranor PGE₂, PGF₂.sub.β, and PGF₂.sub.α analogs of this invention by the procedures of Examples III-IX, X-XII, XXVIII, XXIX-XXXII, and XXXVIII.

EXAMPLE XXVI 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-(m-tolyl)but-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone (8b)

A mixture of 2.4 g (6.1 mmole) of 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-(m-tolyl)-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone (4b), 50 ml of ethyl acetate, and 250 mg of 10% palladium on carbon was hydrogenated on a Parr shaker. The reaction mixture was then filtered and the filtrate concentrated to provide 2.4 g of the desired 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-(m-tolyl)but-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone (8b) as a colorless oil which was used without purification.

The ir spectrum (CHCl₃) of 8b exhibited a strong absorption at 1770 cm⁻ ¹.

The product of this Example (8b) may be converted by the procedures of Examples VII-X, XXVIII, and XXIX-XXXII to the 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-11-desoxy-13,14-dihydro-16-(m-tolyl)-.omega.-tetranor PGE₂, PGF₂.sub.α, and PGF₂.sub.β analogs of this invention.

EXAMPLE XXVII 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)hex-1-yl]-3β-[3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-phenylbut-1-yl]cyclopentanone

A mixture of 618 mg of the product of Example VIII, 100 ml of methanol, and 135 mg of 10% palladium on carbon was hydrogenated on a Parr shaker for 1.0 hour. The mixture was then filtered through "Super Cell" and the filtrate was concentrated to provide the desired 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)hex-1-yl]-3β-[3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-phenylbut-1-yl]cyclopentanone which was used without purification.

EXAMPLE XXVIII 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]-3β-(3-oxo-4-(m-tolyl)-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopentanone:

To a solution cooled to -10° under nitrogen of 394 mg (1 mmole) 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]-3β-(3β-hydroxy-4-(m-tolyl)-trans-1-buten-1-yl)cyclopentanone in 20 ml of reagent grade acetone was added dropwise 0.52 ml (1.1 mmole) of Jones' reagent. After 3 minutes at -10°, 0.3 ml of 2-propanol was added and the reaction was combined with 150 ml ethyl acetate, washed with water (2×50 ml), dried (MgSO₄) and concentrated to give 400 mg of crude product which was purified by column chromatography to yield 300 mg 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]-3β-[3-oxo-4-(m-tolyl)-trans-1-buten-1-yl]cyclopentanone.

EXAMPLE XXIX 5α-acetoxy-2β-[3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-(m-tolyl)-trans-1-buten-1yl]-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]cyclopentanone

A solution of 300 mg (0.62 mmole) 5α-hydroxy-2β-[3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-(m-tolyl)-trans-1-buten-1-yl]-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]cyclopentane in 1.9 ml pyridine containing 0.28 ml acetic anhydride was stirred at 50° in a dry nitrogen atmosphere for 5 hrs. The reaction was then poured onto 10 ml of ice-cold 6N hydrochloric acid. The aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc (4 × 10 ml) and the combined extract washed with brine, dried over Na₂ SO₄ and concentrated to give 306 mg of the desired 5α-acetoxy-2β-[3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-(m-tolyl)-trans-1-buten-1-yl]-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]cyclopentane.

EXAMPLE XXX 5α-acetoxy-2β-[3α-hydroxy-4-(m-tolyl)-trans-1-buten-1-yl]-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]cyclopentane

A solution of 306 mg 5α-acetoxy-2β-[3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-(m-tolyl)-trans-1-buten-1-yl]cyclopentane in 5 ml of a 65:35 mixture of glacial acetic acid:water was stirred under nitrogen at 25° for 18 hrs. then was concentrated by rotary evaporation. The resultant crude oil was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (Baker 60-200 mesh) using methylene chloride and ethyl acetate as eluents. After elution of less polar impurities, 85 mg of the desired 5α-acetoxy-2β-[3α-hydroxy-4-(m-tolyl)-trans-1-buten-1-yl]-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]cyclopentane was collected. The ir (CHCl₃) exhibited a strong absortions at 1720 cm⁻ ¹ for the ester carbonyl and broad absortion at 3550 cm⁻ ¹ for the hydroxyl.

EXAMPLE XXXI 5α-acetoxy-2β-[3-oxo-4-(m-tolyl)-trans-1-buten-1-yl]-1α-[6-((tetrazol- 5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]cyclopentane

To a solution cooled to -10° under nitrogen of 85 mg (0.2 mmole) 5α-acetoxy-2β-[3α-hydroxy-4-(m-tolyl)-trans-1-buten-1-yl]-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]cyclopentane in 2.5 ml of reagent grade acetone was added dropwise 73 γ l of Jones' reagent. After 3 minutes at -10° , 1 drop of 2-propanol was added and the reaction combined with 50 ml ethyl acetate, washed with water (2 × 25 ml) dried (Na₂ SO₄) and concentrated to give 80 mg of the desired 5α-acetoxy-2β-[3-oxo-4-(m-tolyl)-trans-1-buten-1-yl]-1α-[6 -(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]cyclopentane. The ir (CHCl₃) exhibited a strong absorbtion at 1710 cm⁻ ¹ for the ester carbonyl and absortion at 1675, 1650 and 1605 for the enone carbonyl.

EXAMPLE XXXII 5α-hydroxy-2β-[3-oxo-4-(m-tolyl)-trans-1-buten-1-yl]-1α-(6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]cyclopentane

A solution of 80 mg (0.18 mmole) 5α-acetoxy-2β-[3-oxo-4-(m-tolyl)-trans-1-buten-1-yl]-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl] cyclopentane in 2 ml of tetrahydrofuran containing 0.6 ml of 1.0N aqueous sodium hydroxyl and 1.5 ml of methanol was stirred for 8 hrs. in a dry nitrogen atmosphere. The reaction was concentrated by rotary evaporation and purified by column chromatography on silica gel elutery with methylene chloride and ethyl acetate. After elution of less polar impurities, 18 mg of 5α-hydroxy-2β-[3-oxo-4-(m-tolyl)-trans-1-buten-1-yl]-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]cyclopentane was collected. The ir (CHCl₃) spectrum exhibited strong abosrbtion at 1700 and 1600 cm⁻ ¹ for the enone and broad absorbtion at 3550 cm⁻ ¹ for the hydroxyl.

EXAMPLE XXXIII 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3-(1,3-dioxolane)-4-(m-tolyl)but-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone

A solution of 2.83 g (9.9 mmole) of 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3-oxo-4-(m-tolyl)but-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone, 6.2 g (100 mmole) ethylene glycol and 100 mg p-toluenesulfonic acid in 30 ml benzene was heated at reflux with azeotropic removal of water (Dean-Stark trap). The reaction mixture was cooled, washed with saturated sodium bicarbonate, dried over Na₂ SO₄ and evaporated to give 3.2 g of the desired 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3-(1,3-dioxolane)-4-(m-tolyl)but-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone as an oil.

The ir spectrum (CHCl₃) exhibited strong absorbtion at 1765 cm⁻ ¹.

EXAMPLE XXXIV 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3-(1,3-dioxolane)-4-(m-tolyl)but-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetaldehyde, γ-hemiacetal

A solution of 3.2 g (9.7 mmole) 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3-(1,3-dioxolane)-4-(m-tolyl)but-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetic acid, γ-lactone in 150 ml dry toluene was cooled to -78° in a dry nitrogen atmosphere. To this cooled solution was added 13.34 ml of 20% diisobutylaluminum hydride in n-hexane (Alfa Inorganics) dropwise at such a rate so that the internal temperature never rose above -65° (15 min.). After an additional 30 min. at -78°, the reaction was poured onto ether, washed with saturated sodium, potassium tartrate solvent dried over MgSO₄ and evaporated to afford 3.0 g of desired 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3-(1,3-dioxolane)-4-(m-tolyl)but-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetaldehyde, γ-hemiacetal after column chromatography.

EXAMPLE XXXV 5α-hydroxy-2β-[ 3-(1,3-dioxolane)-4-((m-tolyl)but-1-yl]-1α -[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]cyclopentane

To a solution of 16.81 g (36 mmole) (4-(tetrazol-5-yl)-n-butyl)triphenylphosphonium bromide in a dry nitrogen atmosphere in 100 ml of dry dimethylsulfoxide was added 32.6 ml (68 mmole) of a 2M solution of sodium methylsulfinylmethide in dimethyl sulfoxide. To this red ylide solution was added dropwise a solution of 3.0 g (9 mmole) 2-[5α-hydroxy-2β-(3-(1,3-dioxolane)-4-(m-tolyl)but-1-yl)cyclopent-1α-yl]acetaldehyde, γ-hemiacetal in 10 ml of dry dimethylsulfoxide. After 1 hr. stirring at room temperature, the reaction mixture was poured onto ice water and ethyl acetate. This mixture was acidified (1N HCl) with vigorous stirring. The acidic solution was further extracted with ethyl acetate and the combined ethyl acetate extracts were evaporated to a solid residue. The residue was purified by column chromatograph on silica gel (Baker "Analyzed" Reagent 60-200 mesh) using benzene and ethyl acetate as eluents. After removal of higher R_(f) impurities, 450 mg of 5α-hydroxy-2β -[3-(1,3-dioxolane)-4-(m-tolyl)-but-1-yl]-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]cyclopentane was collected.

EXAMPLE XXXVI 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]-3β-(3-(1,3-dioxolane)-4-(m-tolyl)but-1-yl]cyclopentanone

To a solution cooled to -10° under nitrogen of 420 mg (0.95 mmole) 5α-hydroxy-2β-[3-(1,3-dioxolane)-4-(m-tolyl)but-1-yl]-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]cyclopentane was added dropwise 0.4 ml (1.0 mmole) of Jones' reagent. After 15 min. at -10°, 1 drop of 2-propanol was added and the reaction diluted with ether, washed with water, dried over MgSO₄ and concentrated to give 400 ml of desired product which was used without purification.

EXAMPLE XXXVII 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]-3β-[3-oxo-4-(m-tolyl)but-1-yl]cyclopentanone

A solution of 400 mg of 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]-3β-[3-(1,3-dioxolane)-4-(m-tolyl)but-1-yl]cyclopentanone in 5 ml of a 65:35 mixture of glacial acetic acid:water was stirred under nitrogen at 25° for 18 hrs. then concentrated by rotary evaporation. The resultant crude oil was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (Mallincrodt CC-7) using methylene chloride and ether as eluents. After elution of less polar impurities, the oily product weighing 100 mg was obtained.

The ir spectrum exhibited a strong absorbtion at 1730 cm.sup.⁻¹ and 1700 cm.sup.⁻¹ for the carbonyls.

EXAMPLE XXXVIII 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]-3β-[3α-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl]cyclopentanone

A mixture of 494 mg (1.0 mmole) of 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-yl]-3β-[3α-(dimethyl-tert-butylsilyloxy)-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl]cyclopentanone and 522 mg (2.0 mmole) of tetra-n-butyl-ammonium fluoride in 5 ml of tetrahydrofuran is stirred at 0° for 5 minutes then 25° for 30 minutes. The mixture is then diluted with water and extracted with ethyl acetate. The combined organic extracts are washed with saturated brine, dried (anhydrous MgSO₄) and concentrated to provide, after chromatographic purification, 2α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)-cis-2-hexen-1-yl]-3β-[3β-hydroxy-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl]cyclopentanone.

EXAMPLE XXXIX 5α-hydroxy-2β-[3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl]-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)hex-1-yl]cyclopentane

A solution of the product of Example VII (250 mg) and 25 mg of 5% palladium on carbon in 2.5 ml of methanol, cooled to -20°, is stirred under one atmosphere of hydrogen for 3 hours. The mixture is filtered and the filtrate is concentrated to afford the crude 5α-hydroxy-2β-[3α-(tetrahydropyran-2-yloxy)-4-phenyl-trans-1-buten-1-yl]-1α-[6-(tetrazol-5-yl)hex-1-yl]cyclopentane which is used without purification.

The product of this Example may be hydrolyzed as described in Example IX to provide after chromatographic purification 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-16-phenyl-11-desoxy-ω-tetranor PGF₁.sub.α. The product of this Example may also be converted to 2-descarboxy-2-(tetrazol-5-yl)-16-phenyl-11-desoxy-ω-tetranor PGE₂ by the procedures of Examples VIII-IX.

    __________________________________________________________________________                     Additional Compounds                                                           ROO                                                                            |∥∥                                                 Ar--CH--C--CH--P--(OMC).sub.2                                                  |                                                                     R                                                              Ar         R    bp/mp     Rotation                                                                               NMR (Jeps)                                   __________________________________________________________________________     m-methylphenyl                                                                            H    158-162°/0.4mm                                                                            3.75 (11.5)*, 3.02 (22)**                    o-biphenyl H    purified by column                                                                               3.74 (11.5)*, 3.05 (22)**                                    chromatography                                                 5-phenyl-2-thienyl                                                                        H    mp 64-65°  3.75 (11.5)*, 3.08 (22)**                    β-naphthyl                                                                           H    mp 45-47°  3.73 (11.5)*, 3.10 (22)**                    p-chlorophenyl                                                                            H    purified by column                                                                               3.76 (11.5)*, 3.15 (22)**                                    chromatography                                                 p-t-butylphenyl                                                                           H    180°-/0.2 mm                                                                              3.74 (11.5)*, 3.11 (22)**                    phenyl     (+)Me                                                                               purified by column                                                                       +205(CHCl.sub.3)                                                                       3.78 (11.5)* 3.26 (22)**                                     chromatography    3.71 (11.5)*, 2.93 (22)**                    phenyl     (-)Me                                                                               purified by column                                                                       -233(CHCl.sub.3)                                                                       3.78 (11.5)* 3.26 (22)**                                     chromatography    3.71 (11.5)*, 2.93 (22)**                    __________________________________________________________________________     *methoxy protons                                                               **CCH.sub.2 --P                                                                ∥|                                                           OO                                                                             __________________________________________________________________________

    __________________________________________________________________________     Additional Compounds of the Structure                                          Ar         Z* R    mp     IR data cm.sup.-.sup.1                                                                         Rotation                             __________________________________________________________________________     m-methylphenyl                                                                            D  H    80.5-82.5                                                                             1770, 1680, 1620, 980                                o-biphenyl D  H    51-52°                                                                         1770, 1675, 1620, 980                                5-phenyl-2-thienyl                                                                        D  H    oil    1775, 1700, 1680, 1640, 980                          β-naphthyl (rac.)                                                                    D  H    oil    1770, 1700, 1680, 1620, 970                          p-chlorophenyl                                                                            D  H    oil    1779, 1709, 1672, 1639, 980                          p-t-butylphenyl                                                                           D  H    oil    1770, 1695, 1675, 1635, 975                          phenyl     D  (+)Me                                                                               oil    1770, 1710, 1620, 975                                                                          +112.1 (CHCl.sub.3)                  phenyl     D  (-)Me                                                                               55-58°                                                                         1770, 1710, 1620, 975                                                                          -32.79 (CHCl.sub.3)                  __________________________________________________________________________      *D=trans double bond; S=single bond                                      

    __________________________________________________________________________     Additional Compounds                                                           Ar         R    T   Z.sup.(a)                                                                          Polarity.sup.(b)                                                                      SS.sup.(c)                                                                               IR data cm.sup.-.sup.1                __________________________________________________________________________     m-methylphenyl                                                                            H    α--OH                                                                        D   LP     HφEt.sub.2 O                                                                         1770, 970, 3600                       m-methylphenyl                                                                            H    β--OH                                                                         D   MP               1770, 970, 3600                       o-biphenyl H    α--OH                                                                        D   LB     HφEt.sub.2 O                                                                         1770, 975, 3600                       o-biphenyl H    β--OH                                                                         D   MP               1770, 975, 3600                       5-phenyl-2-thienyl                                                                        H    α--OH                                                                        D   LP     HφEt.sub.2 O                                                                         1770, 975, 3600                       5-phenyl-2-thienyl                                                                        H    β--OH                                                                         D   MP               1770, 970, 3600                       β-naphthyl                                                                           H    α--OH                                                                        D   LP     Hφ/Et.sub.2 O                                                                        1770, 970, 3598                       β-naphthyl                                                                           H    β--OH                                                                         D   MP               1770, 970, 3598                       p-chlorophenyl                                                                            H    α--OH                                                                        D   LP     Hφ/Et.sub.2 O                                                                        1770, 970, 3598                       p-chlorophenyl                                                                            H    β--OH                                                                         D   MP               1770, 970, 3598                       p-t-butylphenyl                                                                           H    α--OH                                                                        D   LP     Hφ/EtoAc                                                                             1770, 970, 3598                       p-t-butylphenyl                                                                           H    β--OH                                                                         D   MP               1770, 970, 3598                       phenyl     (+)Me                                                                               α --OH                                                                       D   LP     10%EtoAc/Benzene                                                                         1770, 970, 3600                       phenyl     (+)Me                                                                               β--OH                                                                         D   MP     10%EtoAc/Benzene                                                                         1770, 970, 3598                       phenyl     (-)Me                                                                               α--OH                                                                        D   LP     20%Et.sub.2 O/Benzene                                                                    1770, 970, 3600                       phenyl     (-)Me                                                                               β--OH                                                                         D   MP     20%Et.sub.2 O/Benzene                                                                    1770, 970, 3600                       __________________________________________________________________________      .sup.(a) D is trans double bond; S is single bond                              .sup.(b) TLC mobility LP=less polar, MP=more polar                             .sup.(c) Solvent system for column chromatography isomer separation      

    ______________________________________                                         Additional Compounds                                                           Ar           T        R        Z*   IR data cm.sup.-.sup.1                     ______________________________________                                         m-methylphenyl                                                                              α--OTHP                                                                           H        D    1770, 970                                  m-methylphenyl                                                                              β--OTHP                                                                            H        D    1770, 970                                  o-biphenyl   α--OTHP                                                                           H        D    1770, 970                                  o-biphenyl   β--OTHP                                                                            H        D    1770, 970                                  5-phenyl-2-thienyl                                                                          α--OTHP                                                                           H        D    1770, 970                                  5-phenyl-2-thienyl                                                                          β--OTHP                                                                            H        D    1770, 970                                  β-naphthyl                                                                             α--OTHP                                                                           H        D    1770, 970                                  β-naphthyl                                                                             β--OTHP                                                                            H        D    1770, 970                                  p-chlorophenyl                                                                              α--OTHP                                                                           H        D    1770, 970                                  p-chlorophenyl                                                                              β--OTHP                                                                            H        D    1770, 970                                  p-t-butylphenyl                                                                             α--OTHP                                                                           H        D    1770, 970                                  p-t-butylphenyl                                                                             β--OTHP                                                                            H        D    1770, 970                                  phenyl       α--OTHP                                                                           (+)Me    D    1770, 970                                  phenyl       β--OTHP                                                                            (+)Me    D    1770, 970                                  phenyl       α--OTHP                                                                           (-)Me    D    1770, 970                                  phenyl       β--OTHP                                                                            (-)Me    D    1770, 970                                  ______________________________________                                          *D is trans double bond; S is single bond.                               

    ______________________________________                                         Additional Compounds                                                           Ar           T        R        Z*   IR data cm.sup.-.sup.1                     ______________________________________                                         m-methylphenyl                                                                              α--OTHP                                                                           H        D    970                                        m-methylphenyl                                                                              β--OTHP                                                                            H        D    970                                        o-biphenyl   α--OTHP                                                                           H        D    970                                        o-biphenyl   β--OTHP                                                                            H        D    970                                        5-phenyl-2-thienyl                                                                          α--OTHP                                                                           H        D    970                                        5-phenyl-2-thienyl                                                                          β--OTHP                                                                            H        D    970                                        β-naphthyl                                                                             α--OTHP                                                                           H        D    970                                        β-naphthyl                                                                             β--OTHP                                                                            H        D    970                                        p-chlorophenyl                                                                              α--OTHP                                                                           H        D    970                                        p-chlorophenyl                                                                              β--OTHP                                                                            H        D    970                                        p-t-butylphenyl                                                                             α---OTHP                                                                          H        D    965                                        p-t-butylphenyl                                                                             β--OTHP                                                                            H        D    965                                        phenyl       α--OTHP                                                                           (+)Me    D    975                                        phenyl       β--OTHP                                                                            (+)Me    D    975                                        phenyl       α--OTHP                                                                           (-)Me    D    975                                        phenyl       β--OTHP                                                                            (-)Me    D    975                                        ______________________________________                                          *D is trans double bond; S is single bond.                               

    ______________________________________                                         Additional Compounds                                                           Ar           T        R        W*     Z**                                      ______________________________________                                         m-methylphenyl                                                                              α--OTHP                                                                           H        D      D                                        m-methylphenyl                                                                              β--OTHP                                                                            H        D      D                                        o-biphenyl   α--OTHP                                                                           H        D      D                                        o-biphenyl   β--OTHP                                                                            H        D      D                                        5-phenyl-2-thienyl                                                                          α--OTHP                                                                           H        D      D                                        5-phenyl-2-thienyl                                                                          β--OTHP H                                                                          D        D                                               β-naphthyl                                                                             α--OTHP                                                                           H        D      D                                        β-naphthyl                                                                             β--OTHP                                                                            H        D      D                                        p-chlorophenyl                                                                              α--OTHP                                                                           H        D      D                                        p-chlorophenyl                                                                              β--OTHP                                                                            H        D      D                                        p-t-butylphenyl                                                                             α--OTHP                                                                           H        D      D                                        p-t-butylphenyl                                                                             β--OTHP                                                                            H        D      D                                        phenyl       α--OTHP                                                                           (+)Me    D      D                                        phenyl       β--OTHP                                                                            (+)Me    D      D                                        phenyl       α--OTHP                                                                           (-)Me    D      D                                        phenyl       β--OTHP                                                                            (-)Me    D      D                                        ______________________________________                                          *D is cis double bond; S is single bond.                                       **D is trans double bond; S is single bond.                              

    __________________________________________________________________________     Additional Compounds                                                           Ar         T    R    W* Z** IR data                                            __________________________________________________________________________     m-methylphenyl                                                                            α--OTHP                                                                       H    D  D   1740, 970                                          m-methylphenyl                                                                            β--OTHP                                                                        H    D  D   1740, 970                                          o-biphenyl α--OTHP                                                                       H    D  D   1740, 970                                          o-biphenyl β--OTHP                                                                        H    D  D   1740, 970                                          5-phenyl-2-thienyl                                                                        α--OTHP                                                                       H    D  D   1740, 970                                          5-phenyl-2-thienyl                                                                        β--OTHP                                                                        H    D  D   1740, 970                                          β-naphthyl                                                                           α--OTHP                                                                       H    D  D   1738, 970                                          β-naphthyl                                                                           β--OTHP                                                                        H    D  D   1738, 970                                          p-chlorophenyl                                                                            α--OTHP                                                                       H    D  D   1740, 970                                          p-chlorophenyl                                                                            β--OTHP                                                                        H    D  D   1740, 970                                          p-t-butylphenyl                                                                           α--OTHP                                                                       H    D  D   1740, 965                                          p-t-butylphenyl                                                                           β--OTHP                                                                        H    D  D   1740, 965                                          phenyl     α--OTHP                                                                       (+)Me                                                                               D  D   1740, 970                                          phenyl     β--OTHP                                                                        (+)Me                                                                               D  D   1740, 970                                          phenyl     α--OTHP                                                                       (-)Me                                                                               D  D   1740, 970                                          phenyl     β--OTHP                                                                        (-)Me                                                                               D  D   1740, 970                                          __________________________________________________________________________      *D is cis double bond; S is single bond.                                        **D is trans double bond; S is single bond.                             

    __________________________________________________________________________     Additional Compounds                                                           Ar         T   R    W* Z** IR data cm.sup.-.sup.1                              __________________________________________________________________________     m-methylphenyl                                                                            α--OH                                                                        H    D  D   3550 (broad) 1740, 970                              m-methylphenyl                                                                            β--OH                                                                         H    D  D   3550 (broad) 1740, 970                              o-biphenyl α--OH                                                                        H    D  D   3550 (broad) 1740, 970                              o-biphenyl β--OH                                                                         H    D  D   3550 (broad) 1740, 970                              5-phenyl-2-thienyl                                                                        α--OH                                                                        H    D  D   3550 (broad) 1740, 970                              5-phenyl-2-thienyl                                                                        β--OH                                                                         H    D  D   3550 (broad) 1740, 970                              β-naphthyl                                                                           α--OH                                                                        H    D  D   3550 (broad) 1740, 970                              β-naphthyl                                                                           β--OH                                                                         H    D  D   3550 (broad) 1740, 970                              p-chlorophenyl                                                                            α--OH                                                                        H    D  D   3550 (broad) 1740, 970                              p-chlorophenyl                                                                            β--OH                                                                         H    D  D   3550 (broad) 1740, 970                              p-t-butylphenyl                                                                           α--OH                                                                        H    D  D   3550 (broad) 1740, 965                              p-t-butylphenyl                                                                           β--OH                                                                         H    D  D   3550 (broad) 1740, 965                              phenyl     α--OH                                                                        (+)Me                                                                               D  D   3550 (broad) 1740, 970                              phenyl     β--OH                                                                         (+)Me                                                                               D  D   3550 (broad) 1740, 970                              phenyl     α--OH                                                                        (-)Me                                                                               D  D   3550 (broad) 1740, 970                              phenyl     β--OH                                                                         (-)Me                                                                               D  D   3550 (broad) 1740, 970                              __________________________________________________________________________      *D is cis double bond; S is single bond.                                       **D is trans double bond; S is single bond.                              

    ______________________________________                                         Additional Compounds                                                           Ar      R     W*     Z**   IR data cm.sup.-.sup.1                              ______________________________________                                         β-naphthyl                                                                        H     D      D     1740, 1700, 1680, 1620, 970                         ______________________________________                                          *D is cis double bond; S is single bond.                                       **D is trans double bond; S is single bond.                               

What is claimed is:
 1. 2-descarboxy-2-[tetrazol-5-yl]-11-desoxy-ω-pentanorprostaglandins and their C₁₅ epimers having at the 15-position a hydroxy or a keto group and one substituent of the formula: ##EQU8## wherein Ar is α- or β-thienyl; 5-phenyl-α- or β-thienyl; 5-lower alkyl-α- or β-thienyl; α- or β-naphthyl; tropyl, phenyl; 3,5-dimethylphenyl; 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl; 3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl; 3,4-dichlorophenyl; and monosubstituted phenyl wherein said substituent is bromo, chloro, fluoro, trifluoromethyl, phenyl, lower alkyl, or lower alkoxy; and R is hydrogen or methyl.
 2. 2-descarboxy-2-[tetrazol-5-yl]-11-desoxy-ω-pentanorprotaglandins of the E or F series and their C₁₅ epimers having at the 15-position a hydroxy or keto group and one substituent of the formula: ##EQU9## wherein Ar is α- or β-thienyl; 5-phenyl-α- or β-thienyl; 5-lower alkyl-α- or β -thienyl; α- or β -naphthyl; tropyl, phenyl; 3,5-dimethylphenyl; 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl; 3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl; 3,4-dichlorophenyl and monosubstituted phenyl wherein said substituent is bromo, chloro, fluoro, trifluoromethyl, phenyl, lower alkyl, or lower alkoxy; and R is hydrogen or methyl.
 3. A compound of the structure: ##SPC17##wherein Ar is α- or β-thienyl; 5-phenyl-α- or β-thienyl; 5-lower alkyl-α- or β-thienyl; α- or β-naphthyl; tropyl, phenyl; 3,5-dimethylphenyl, 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl; 3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl; 3,4-dichlorophenyl; and monosubstituted phenyl wherein said substituent is bromo, chloro, fluoro, trifluoromethyl, phenyl, lower alkyl, or lower alkoxy; R is hydrogen or methyl; W is a single bond or cis double bond; Z is a single bond or trans double bond; and M and N are each keto, ##EQU10##
 4. A compound of the structure; ##SPC18##wherein Ar is α- or β-thienyl; 5-phenyl-α- or β-thienyl; 5-lower alkyl-α- or β-thienyl; α- or β-naphthyl; tropyl, phenyl; 3,5-dimethylphenyl; 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl; 3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl; 3,4-dichlorophenyl; and monosubstituted phenyl wherein said substituent is bromo, chloro, fluoro, trifluoromethyl, phenyl, lower alkyl, or lower alkoxy; R is hydrogen or methyl; W is a single bond or cis double bond; and Z is a single bond or trans double bond.
 5. A compound of the formula: ##SPC19##wherein Ar is α- or β-thienyl; 5-phenyl-α- or β-thienyl; 5-lower alkyl-α- or β-thienyl; α- or β-naphthyl; tropyl, phenyl; 3,5-dimethylphenyl; 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl; 3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl; 3,4-dichlorophenyl; and monosubstituted phenyl wherein said substituent is bromo, chloro, fluoro, trifluoromethyl, phenyl, lower alkyl, or lower alkoxy; R is hydrogen or methyl; W is a single bond or cis double bond; and Z is a single bond or trans double bond.
 6. A compound of the formula: ##SPC20##wherein Ar is α- or β-thienyl; 5-phenyl-α- or β -thienyl; 5-lower alkyl-α- or β -thienyl; α- or β-naphthyl; tropyl, phenyl, 3,5-dimethylphenyl; 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl; 3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl; 3,4-dichlorophenyl; and monosubstituted phenyl wherein said substituent is bromo, chloro, fluoro, trifluoromethyl, phenyl, lower alkyl, or lower alkoxy; R is hydrogen or methyl; W is a single bond or cis double bond; and Z is a single bond or trans double bond.
 7. A compound of the structure: ##SPC21##and the C₁₅ epimers thereof, wherein Ar is α- or β-thienyl; 5-phenyl-α- or β-thienyl; 5-lower alkyl-α- or β-thienyl; α- or β-naphthyl; tropyl, phenyl; 3,5-dimethylphenyl; 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl; 3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl; 3,4-dichlorophenyl; and monosubstituted phenyl wherein said substituent is bromo, chloro, fluoro, trifluoromethyl, phenyl, lower alkyl, or lower alkoxy; R is hydrogen or methyl; W is a single bond or cis double bond; and Z is a single bond or trans double bond.
 8. A compound of the structure: ##SPC22##and the C₁₅ epimers thereof, wherein Ar is α- or β-thienyl; 5-phenyl-α- or β-thienyl; 5-lower alkyl-α- or β-thienyl; α- or β-naphthyl; tropyl, phenyl; 3,5-dimethylphenyl; 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl; 3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl; 3,4-dichlorophenyl; and monosubstituted phenyl wherein said substituent is bromo, chloro, fluoro, trifluoromethyl, phenyl, lower alkyl, or lower alkoxy; R is hydrogen or methyl; W is a single bond or cis double bond; and Z is a single bond or trans double bond.
 9. A compound of the structure: ##SPC23##and the C₁₅ epimers thereof, wherein Ar is α- or β-thienyl; 5-phenyl-α- or β-thienyl; 5-lower alkyl-α- or β-thienyl; α- or β-naphthyl; tropyl, phenyl; 3,5-dimethylphenyl; 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl; 3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl; 3,4-dichlorophenyl; and monosbustituted phenyl wherein said substituent is bromo, chloro, fluoro, trifluoromethyl, phenyl, lower alkyl, or lower alkoxy; R is hydrogen or methyl; W is a single bond or cis double bond; and Z is a single bond or trans double bond.
 10. A compound of the structure: ##SPC24##and the C₁₅ epimers thereof, wherein Ar is α- or β-thienyl; 5-phenyl-α- or β-thienyl; 5-lower alkyl-α- or β-thienyl; α- or β-naphthyl; tropyl, phenyl; 3,5-dimethylphenyl; 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl; 3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl; 3,4-dichlorophenyl; and monosubstituted phenyl wherein said substituent is bromo, chloro, fluoro, trifluoromethyl, phenyl, lower alkyl, or lower alkoxy; R is hydrogen or methyl; W is a single bond or cis double bond; Z is a single bond or trans double bond; R₁ is tetrahydropyranyl or dimethyl-tert-butylsilyl; and ##EQU11## or =
 0. 11. A compound of claim 3 wherein W is a cis double bond and Z is a trans double bond.
 12. A compound of claim 3 wherein W is a cis double bond and Z is a single bond.
 13. A compound of claim 3 wherein both W and Z are single bonds.
 14. A compound of claim 3 wherein W is a single bond and Z is a trans double bond.
 15. A compound of claim 4 wherein W is a cis double bond and Z is a trans double bond.
 16. A compound of claim 4 wherein W is a cis double bond and Z is a single bond.
 17. A compound of claim 4 wherein W is a single bond and Z is a trans double bond.
 18. A compound of claim 4 wherein both W and Z are single bonds.
 19. A compound of claim 9 wherein W is a cis double bond and Z is a trans double bond.
 20. A compound of claim 9 wherein both W and Z are single bonds.
 21. A compound of claim 9 wherein W is a cis double bond and Z is a single bond.
 22. A compound of claim 9 wherein W is a single bond and Z is a trans double bond.
 23. A compound of the structure: ##SPC25##wherein R₂ is alkyl of from 1 to 8 carbons, phenalkyl of up to 9 carbons, phenyl, tolyl, p-biphenyl and α- or β-naphthyl.
 24. A compound of claim 4 wherein Ar is m-tolyl, W is a cis double bond, Z is a trans double bond, and R is hydrogen.
 25. A compound of claim 4 wherein Ar is phenyl, W is a cis double bond, Z is a trans double bond, and R is hydrogen.
 26. A compound of claim 4 wherein Ar is phenyl, W and Z are single bonds, and R is hydrogen.
 27. A compound of claim 4 wherein Ar is phenyl, W is a single bond, Z is a trans double bond, and R is hydrogen.
 28. A compound of claim 4 wherein Ar is m-tolyl, W is a cis double bond, Z is a single bond, and R is hydrogen.
 29. A compound of claim 6 wherein Ar is m-tolyl, W is a cis double bond, Z is a trans double bond, and R is hydrogen.
 30. A compound of claim 6 wherein Ar is m-tolyl, W is a cis double bond, Z is a single bond, and R is hydrogen.
 31. A compound of claim 9 wherein Ar is 5-phenyl-α-thienyl, W is a cis double bond, Z is a trans double bond, and R is hydrogen.
 32. A compound of claim 9 wherein Ar is phenyl, W is a cis double bond, Z is a trans double bond, and R is (-)-methyl.
 33. A compound of claim 9 wherein Ar is phenyl, W is a cis double bond, Z is a trans double bond, and R is (+)-methyl.
 34. A compound of claim 9 wherein Ar is β-naphthyl, W is a cis double bond, Z is a trans double bond, R is hydrogen, and said prostaglandin is racemic.
 35. A compound of claim 9 wherein Ar is β-naphthyl, W is a cis double bond, Z is a trans double bond, R is hydrogen, and said prostaglandin is a racemic C₁₅ epimer.
 36. A compound of claim 9 wherein Ar is phenyl, W and Z are single bonds, and R is hydrogen.
 37. A compound of claim 9 wherein Ar is m-tolyl, W is a cis double bond, Z is a trans double bond, and R is hydrogen. 